As part of the outreach effort, a series of events, called Para mi Raza (For My People) is planned to increase information on the how and why of attending college for the Latino population surrounding Ohlone. Ohlone College is promoting higher education to Latino teenagers with a traveling panel of former and current Latino Ohlone College students that will visit various high schools throughout Fremont, Newark, and Union City from April 21st to 29th. The outreach tour culminates in a festive early Cinco de Mayo celebration on Thursday, April 29 from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. in the Smith Center at Ohlone College. This event is free and open to everyone.

"Latinos enrolled at Ohlone College are underrepresented by fifty percent, based on the general population in the surrounding communities," said Doug Treadway, President of Ohlone College. "Currently, only nine percent of Ohlone students are Latinos and we want to double that number. Our goal is to reach out to the Latino community and let them know what Ohlone College has to offer them."

The high school tour provides a forum for former and current Latino Ohlone College students to share their experiences, challenges, and successes as a college student. They will also talk about the resources available to support Latino students. "Current research shows that one of the main obstacles for Latinos to pursue an education beyond high school is lack of funding. They do not have the information they need about how to obtain financial aid," said Brenda Arteaga, Financial Aid Counselor. "By reaching out to the Latino community, we will educate students and parents about financial aid programs and other resources available to them."

The early Cinco de Mayo event will feature one of the hottest, young Latino comedians in the country, Ernie G. This family event features entertainment line-ups that includes DJs from Wild 94.9 FM, ballet folklorico dancers from James Logan High School, and games for kids. Food, giveaways and on-site information about Ohlone College are also part of the evening's program. Admission and parking is free. The event is co-sponsored by the Ohlone College Financial Aid Department.

For information on the College, please call 510.659.6206 or go to www.ohlone.edu.